Snowy Adventures in Slovakia
From exploring the snow-covered peaks of the Tatra Mountains and its glacial lakes to a magical display of ice sculptures and architectural replicas and an idyllic spa village for a post-activity soak, we discover the delights of winter in Slovakia.
- Zina Oláhová is a PR specialist at Slovakia Travel, the national tourism organization. A former journalist with over 13 years of experience in Slovak media, she is passionate about travel, local cuisine, and discovering hidden gems around the world.
Vysoké Tatry (High Tatras)
⚑ 062 01 Vysoké Tatry
The highest mountains in Central Europe and a part of the Western Carpathians, the Tatras are a mountain range shared by Slovakia and Poland. The main ridge of Slovakia’s High Tatras is 26km in length, and hikers can explore one of the 50 peaks with an elevation of over 2,000m above sea level, including Gerlachovský štít (2,655m), the highest peak.
- TIP For easier routes, hike to Hrebienok from the resort town of Starý Smokovec, or walk to the Popradské pleso Lake, which is an easy, hour long walk from the Tatra Electric Railway stop Popradské Pleso.
Lomnický štít Peak
⚑ 059 60 Vysoké Tatry
The second-highest hill of the High Tatras at 2,634m, the Lomnický štít is one of the most visited peaks not only for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, but also for the series of breathtaking cable car rides, including the final one which takes visitors up the 855m elevation climb to the top in a little over 8 minutes.
- TIP For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you can book a hotel room and spend the night at the top of Lomnický štít. Catch the sunrise from the peak or gaze at stars during the night.
Štrbské pleso Lake
⚑ 059 85 Vysoké Tatry
Štrbské pleso, a glacial lake in the High Tatras and a resort town of the same name, is a popular all-year-round destination. In winter, visitors can take a stroll around the lake for picture-perfect photos capturing the frozen tarn surrounded by snow-dusted rocks and trees, all set against the majestic backdrop of the Tatra Mountains.
- TIP In summer, you can rent a rowboat and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Tatra Temple of Ice
⚑ Hrebienok, 062 01 Vysoké Tatry
Each year, ice carvers from all over Europe gather in the ski resort town of Hrebienok to transform tons of ice into works of art exhibited under a huge dome of ice. The highlight of the event is a huge replica of world-famous architectural masterpieces. Westminster Abbey (London), Notre-Dame (Paris) and St. Peter’s Basilica (Rome) are just some of the inspirations for previous years’ ice structures.
- TIP If there is enough snow, an unforgettable experience can be a sledge ride down the 2.5km track from Hrebienok to Starý Smokovec.
Icefall at Šikľavá skala Rock
⚑ 053 63 Chrasť nad Hornádom
Winter is able to create unique natural phenomena and bring extraordinary experiences. If walking into the underbelly of an icefall sound like fun, then head to the town of Spišská Nová Ves in eastern Slovakia. The waterfall at Šikľavá skala Rock is 40m high and approximately 400m wide. During the winter, its water freezes, creating a fascinating natural attraction — a gorgeous veil of ice. You can admire the massive ice walls here as well as the beautiful icefalls and gigantic icicles.
- TIP About half an hour’s drive away is Tomášovský výhľad, one of Slovakia’s most iconic viewpoints located within the Slovak Paradise National Park.
Spišský hrad Castle
⚑ 053 61, Žehra
The iconic Spišský hrad Castle, one of the largest castle ruins in all of Central Europe, has stood on a cliff in the village of Žehra for over 900 years. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993, the castle is a popular tourist destination attracting visitors from around the world. Visit the castle’s museum for a deeper dive into the history and significance of this Slovak cultural heritage.
- TIP Explore sites within the UNESCO World Heritage area like St. Martin’s Cathedral and the historic center of Levoča, home to the world’s highest wooden Gothic altar.
LiptovskýJán Thermal Spring
⚑ 032 03 Liptovský Ján
Kaďa thermal spring in Liptovský Ján offers a perfect combination of relaxation and therapy in the embrace of nature. This unconventional wellness spot located under the open air is accessible all year round. You can visit the natural crater here, which has pleasantly warm water even in winter. Swimming in the quiet of the mountains under a star-filled sky is an unforgettable experience.
- TIP Don’t miss Park Mini Slovensko, a miniature park featuring 23 models of Slovakia’s most famous landmarks including castles and churches.
- Korean Air operates direct flights between Incheon and Vienna 3 times a week, with Slovakia just an hour drive away.
